Date of Publication

2007

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Psychology

Subject Categories

Psychology

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Psychology

Thesis Adviser

Marie Madelene A. Sta. Maria

Defense Panel Chair

Ma. Angeles Lapena

Defense Panel Member

Marshall Valencia
Roberto Mendoza

Abstract/Summary

The present study employed the grounded theory approach to explore the experience of companionship among online friends in the context of cyberspace. Existing literature in adolescent online friendship formation regarded companionship as one motivating factor for engaging in such relationship. However, there have been limited accounts that explained how companionship, a construct that emphasized the interaction closeness in physical space, thrives in a computer-mediated environment. Ten adolescents underwent interview sessions that described their interactions with their online friends in cyberspace. Data were subjected to three phases of analysis, namely, open, axial and selective coding to arrive at a core category. Results illustrated the experience of online companionship, labeled as virtual togetherness that included various elements that comprised the experience. These elements included online interactivity, means for online interactivity (i.e., avenues for interaction and perceptive envisioning), time element, sense of gut-feel, perceived degree of friendship closeness and consequences arising from friendship closeness. The elements of virtual togetherness, their relationships, as well as their implications in online friendship formation and maintenance are discussed.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG004122

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

iv, 134 leaves, 28 cm. ; Typescript

Keywords

Internet--Social aspects; Computer networks--Social aspects; Electronic discussion groups; Online chat groups

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